Musk transforms Cybertrucks into emergency internet providers in Los Angeles

Elon Musk, the American businessman known for his key roles in the space company SpaceX and the automotive company Tesla, announced the transformation of Tesla’s famous Cybertrucks into emergency internet providers in Los Angeles. Leveraging Starlink technology, the Cybertrucks will provide internet service to areas currently affected by the Palisades fire.

The Palisades fire

Los Angeles has been impacted by the Palisades fire, which began in the Pacific Palisades last Tuesday. The wildfires burned approximately 23,654 acres and destroyed 5,316 structures. It is currently 11% contained, and experts estimate the total damage could approach $20 billion.

Elon Musk announced that Tesla’s famous Cybertrucks, the battery-electric pickup trucks, will be transformed into internet and power providers to roam the streets of Los Angeles and Malibu, helping people in the affected areas.

“We are going to position Cybertrucks with Starlinks and free WiFi in a grid pattern in the areas that most need it in the greater LA/Malibu area,” Musk stated.

“Apologies to those expecting Cybertruck deliveries in California over the next few days. We need to use those trucks as mobile base stations to provide power to Starlink Internet terminals in areas of LA without connectivity. A new truck will be delivered end of week,” Musk added.

Originally, Tesla’s Cybertrucks were designed for deliveries in California. However, they will now be repurposed as mobile base stations to support Starlink Internet, the world’s first and largest satellite constellation, which uses low Earth orbit to deliver broadband internet.

According to Tesla, eight Cybertrucks have been deployed in Los Angeles, including locations in Pasadena, Zuma Beach, and Malibu, to provide access to internet, water, and snacks. It is worth noting that many areas are currently experiencing power outages.